The Real Cost Difference: OEM vs Aftermarket
When your TPMS warning light comes on, the dealer will often quote you $80–$120 per sensor plus programming and labor. An aftermarket alternative like the BH-Sens BL-ST-031 typically runs $25–$40. For a four-sensor replacement, that’s a saving of $200–$300 before installation.
But is the aftermarket part a gamble? Not when it’s manufactured by Baolong Technology (under the BH-Sens brand), one of the original equipment suppliers for many SAIC-group vehicles including MG, Roewe, and Rising. The BL-ST-031 is built to the same specifications as the OEM sensor with OE numbers 10290600, 10625492, 10718213, and 11205327. It’s a clamp-in, 433MHz unit that is pre-programmed out of the box.
When OEM Is Actually Worth It
There are exactly three scenarios where spending the extra money on a genuine OEM sensor makes sense:
- Vehicle still under factory warranty – Some dealers will void TPMS-related claims if non-OEM sensors are installed. Check your warranty booklet.
- You cannot or do not want to program a new sensor – OEM sensors often come already paired to the vehicle’s ECU when bought from the dealer. Aftermarket sensors usually need to be programmed via a tool or by cloning the ID from your old sensor. If you don’t own a TPMS tool and the shop charges extra for programming, the total might approach OEM cost.
- Rare compatibility issues – On some niche model years, a vehicle’s TPMS module may reject aftermarket IDs. This is extremely uncommon with BH-Sens because Baolong is a Tier-1 supplier, but it can happen.
For 95% of 龙猫 owners, none of these apply. You’re better off with the aftermarket option.
BH-Sens BL-ST-031 vs OEM – Side-by-Side
| Feature | OEM Sensor (SAIC Genuine) | BH-Sens BL-ST-031 |
|---|---|---|
| Price per sensor | $80–$120 | $28–$35 |
| Frequency | 433MHz | 433MHz |
| OE Numbers | 10290600, 10625492, 10718213 | Same OE numbers – direct replacement |
| Pre-programmed? | Yes, from factory | Yes, pre-programmed to OE IDs |
| Clamp-in design | Yes | Yes |
| Manufacturer | Baolong or Continental (varies) | Baolong Technology (BH-Sens) |
| Warranty | 1 year (dealer) | 2 years (BH-Sens) |
| Fitment: 龙猫, MG, Roewe, Rising | 100% | 100% (59 verified vehicle fitments) |
Why Pre-Programmed Sensors Save You Time
The BL-ST-031 is pre-programmed with the same sensor ID as the OEM part it replaces. This means you can install it, drive for a few minutes, and the vehicle will automatically learn the new sensor without any special tool or dealer visit. Most 龙猫 models from 2010 onward support this “auto-learn” feature. If yours doesn’t, a standard TPMS scan tool will program the ID in under 30 seconds.
Installation Tips for 龙猫 Owners
- Check your valve stem type – The BL-ST-031 is a clamp-in sensor compatible with rubber snap-in valves. If your original sensor used a metal clamp-in design (common on newer models), this is a direct swap.
- Torque specification – Tighten the retaining nut to 3.5–4.5 Nm (check your vehicle manual). Over-tightening can crack the sensor housing.
- Relearn procedure – After installation, inflate tires to spec, then drive above 20 km/h for 10–15 minutes. The TPMS light should turn off automatically.
Recommended Part
For a direct replacement that matches OEM quality at half the price, use the BL-ST-031 | BH-Sens 433MHz TPMS Tire Pressure Sensor | Fits Im, MG, Rising, Roewe | OE# 10290600, 10625492, 10718213 (SKU: BL-ST-031). It fits 59 different vehicle models from the SAIC group, including all 龙猫 variants from 2014 onward.
FAQ
Will the BL-ST-031 fit my 2023 龙猫?
Yes. The BL-ST-031 is confirmed compatible with all 龙猫 models that use the 433MHz frequency and the OE numbers listed (10290600, 10625492, 10718213). Most 龙猫 vehicles from 2014 to present fall under this category. If your model year is earlier, check the OE number on your current sensor before ordering.
Do I need to reprogram the sensor after installation?
No, if your 龙猫 supports automatic sensor ID learning (most do). Simply install the sensor, inflate tires, and drive. The car will detect the new ID within a few minutes. If the light stays on, a tire shop with a TPMS tool can program the ID in less than a minute.
Is BH-Sens a reliable brand?
Yes. BH-Sens is the aftermarket division of Baolong Technology, which supplies TPMS sensors directly to automakers like SAIC, Geely, and Changan. The BL-ST-031 is manufactured using the same production line as the OEM parts for MG and Roewe. It carries a two-year warranty, which is longer than most OEM warranties.
What if I have a different OE number not listed?
The BL-ST-031 covers OE numbers 10290600, 10625492, 10718213, and 11205327. If your sensor shows a different number, it may still be cross-compatible. Contact support with your original sensor’s part number for verification.